For the second time in Fluvanna history, the FCHS JV football team achieved a perfect season, going 11-0. In more ways than one, the team came, saw, and conquered the competition, providing an opportunity for fans to see the players’ talent and skill.
“It was mostly smooth sailing from a game standpoint. The only team that we really faced adversity against was Louisa, twice. Throughout the season, there’s the ups and downs. Towards the end of the season, we had a couple key injuries that made us shuffle some players around, but those players stepped up and did a great job until the injured players returned,” said JV Head Coach Josh Barringer.
Regarding individual players’ performances, Barringer said, “Every time Garrett Jordan touched the ball it seemed to be a highlight; he’s so electric and a dynamic playmaker.” He also gave shout outs to Sincere Fitch’s interception and return against Buckingham, Jack Pace’s game against Western Albemarle, Jacob Loving’s long touchdown run against Monticello, and Caleb Ray’s strip fumble touchdowns against Goochland and Louisa.
Overall, Barringer said, “The best highlight was winning the JV Championship again. It was the ultimate reward for these student athletes who worked so hard this season and really bought into what we were doing.”
Victory often comes at a cost, especially playing in the competitive Jefferson district, but Barringer feels the players got out of the season everything they put into it, and more.
“I thought the team did a good job this year at knowing who their competition was and going into every game pedal to the metal. They put teams away early and allowed their other teammates a chance to not only get in the game, but to get some meaningful minutes that paid huge dividends later in the season,” he said.
An understated part of any group’s success can be found in how the team works together, especially under pressure.
“Team chemistry was a key factor [in winning the championship]. It’s easy to coach when you have a bunch of kids that get along well. [They had a] willingness to be great. Everything wasn’t always perfect, but the kids were coachable and took the criticisms. When they didn’t understand something they asked questions, and if they saw something on film, they offered suggestions. Their practice habits were good for the most part. This is a critical piece because JV doesn’t have the luxury of getting almost a week to prepare for a team,” Barringer said.
While the players celebrate their season victory, many continue to branch out into the world of athletics. Some are already playing other sports or hitting the weight room for next fall. The sophomores and some freshmen will likely graduate to the varsity level.
Barringer anticipates some returning players and new players who he hopes to coach to another successful JV championship.
